Tensions with Venezuela Intensify After Reported Ultimatum from President Trump to Venezuela's Leader.
Sources indicate that ex-President Trump delivered a direct ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: leave office – and flee the country – immediately.
As stated in reports, the American president reportedly held a telephone conversation with his South American counterpart, who is the focus of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has included a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You have the chance to save yourself and those closest to you, but you must depart from the country right away," the U.S. president allegedly stated, offering assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he agreed to resign right away."
However, the Venezuelan leader reportedly declined to relinquish power right then and reportedly made a series of conditions, including international amnesty and being allowed to give up civilian authority while retaining command of the armed forces.
New Increase in Long-Running Two-Nation Tensions
This incident marks the latest heightening of tensions between the two countries. Recently, Trump reportedly convened with his leading national security advisers to review the Venezuelan crisis, though details of that gathering were not revealed.
Salient Points from the Alleged Exchange
- Demand: Prompt resignation and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Rejection: Maduro supposedly turned down the offer for a fast exit.
- Counter-Demands: Reportedly requested international immunity and continued authority over the military.
- Broader Context: This takes place during a larger U.S.-led pressure campaign designed to ousting the Venezuelan regime.
When questioned about the conversation, Trump was quoted as saying, "I wouldn't say it was successful or badly, it was a phone call." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have released additional details about the subjects talked about during the remarkable exchange, which reportedly occurred in late November.
